Hockey game

ABSTRACT

An improved game of the table hockey type characterized by the provision of linkage arrangements for operating simulated hockey players which require reduced to and fro movement to accomplish full to and fro movement of the players and wherein some controls operate more than one player. In addition, the hockey game is provided with a timekeeping device and associated audible signal means as well as audible signal means to indicate the score of a goal.

United States Patent Barlow et al.

[ 1 Mar. 7, 1972 [54] HOCKEY GAME [72] Inventors:

Gordon A. Barlow, Evanston; Marvin 1. Glass, Chicago, both of 111.

[73] Assignee: Marvin Glass 81 Associates [22] Filed: June 1, 1970 21App1.No.: 41,885

[52] US. Cl. ..273/85 B, 273/127 R, 273/129 [51] ..A63i 7/06, A63f 7/12[58] Field of Search ..273/85 A, 85 B, 94 C, 94 D, 273/94 E, 94 F, 129

56 References Cited UNITED STATES PATENTS 2,229,232 1/1941 Widegren eta1. ..273/85 B 3,240,495 3/ 1966 2,507,258 5/1950 3,105,687 10/19632/1971 Immendorf ..273/85 A FOREIGN PATENTS OR APPLICATIONS 482,4006/1953 Italy ..273/94 A 510,462 3/1955 Canada 273/85 B 517,203 1/1940Great Britain.... 273/85 B 632,798 12/1961 Canada .273/85 B 811,3234/1937 France ...273/94 A 795,646 5/1958 Great Britain ..273/85 BPrimary Examiner-Richard C. Pinkham Assistant ExaminerPaul E. ShapiroAttorneyl-l0fgren, Wegner, Allen, Stellman and McCord [5 7] ABSTRACT Animproved game of the table hockey type characterized by the provision oflinkage arrangements for operating simulated hockey players whichrequire reduced to and fro movement to accomplish full to and fromovement of the players and wherein some controls operate more than oneplayer. In addition, the hockey game is provided with a timekeepingdevice and associated audible signal means as well as audible signalmeans to indicate the score of a goal.

17 Claims, 18 Drawing Figures PATENTEUMAR 7 I972 SHEET 2 OF 4 noonINVENTORS GOPDO/VAfiA/QZOW MAPV/A/A 61455 ATTORN EYS PATENTEDHAR 7 I972SHEET 3 BF 4 INVENTORS 60900401. EARL 0W M/WV/A/ A 64483 am w aumwwmwATTORNEYS HOCKEY GAME BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of theInvention This invention relates to game devices, and more particularly,to a table game apparatus of the type wherein a playing element isattempted to be introduced into a goal by simulated players, such as asimulated hockey game apparatus.

2. Brief Description of the Prior Art Art known to the applicantrelating to the instant invention includes the following U.S. Pat. Nos.:

Munro et al. 2,048,944 Untener 2.079,l36 Widegren et al. 2,229,232Henderson 2,237,486 Munro 2,382,328 Kohler 2,507,258 Widegren et al.2,698,179 Peters 2,8l9,082 Lebrun 2,964,320 Munro et al. 3,l05,687 Wertz3,1 l2,930 Dennison 3,223,688 Ek 3,240,495 Cane 3,428,316

Generally speaking, all of these patents relate to table gameapparatuses which simulate the well-known game of hockey. There are manyforms of such game apparatuses currently offered in the marketplace, andthese games have proved to be extremely popular with persons of diverseage groups.

Generally speaking, these games offer the advantage of a very closesimulation of the hockey game, in that simulated players may be moved toand fro along the playing surface and also may be rotated about avertical axis to effectuate a stick swinging motion for passing orshooting a simulated puck towards the goal. The most common form of thesimulated hockey games involves a plurality of slots in the game boardequal to the number of players, except for the goalie, for each team.Generally speaking, there are ten slots, five for each team. Typically,three elongated slots extend throughout the offensive zone for each teamfor receiving and tracking three offensive players and two slots areprovided in the defensive zones of each team for receiving and trackingtwo defensive players. Usually, these players are connected throughsuitable gearing or spring arrangement to elongated, generallyhorizontally disposed, linkage members which are movable in a horizontalplane and are rotatable about a horizontal axis. To and fro movement ofthe linkage members move the players to and fro, and rotation of themembers about a horizontal axis causes a pivotal movement of thesimulated players. Simulated goal areas are provided at each end of theplaying surface and some such goals may be provided with recessedportions in the playing surface so as to make it clearly evident that agoal has been scored when a puck is shot into the goal.

Since these forms of hockey games are quite popular and enjoyed byparticipants of many ages, it is most desirable to continue to strive toimprove such structures to enhance the enjoyment and participationtherein. Some shortcomings in the present forms of these games includethe need to move the player control linkage to and fro a distancecorresponding to the to and fro movement to be imparted to the player,thus requiring extensive arm sweep by the participant in a to and frodirection. This makes it difficult for a participant to position himselfclose to the point of action of the game in that the to and fro linkagenecessary to move the players interferes with a participants positionadjacent the game board. Moreover, the participant must, with only twohands, control six player control knobs, one for the goalie and five forthe remaining offensive and defensive players. The participant, whileattempting to keep his eyes on the puck, must also attempt to select theright player control knob for appropriately initiating defensive oroffensive action. Furthermore, sometimes visual observation of whetheror not a goal has been scored, has led to many disputes in that it ispossible for a puck to enter the simulated net and rebound outwardlytherefrom without ever coming to rest in the recessed area of the goal.

Thus, this invention is directed to a need and desire in the art forimproving games of the table hockey type, both with respect to thespecifically mentioned shortcomings, and other features as well.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION This invention is directed, in brief, to theprovision of an improved game apparatus of the table hockey type.

The best mode currently contemplated for carrying out the inventionincludes the provision of a game board with linkage and player membersconnected thereto. It is intended that common linkage is to be utilizedto control more than one player. Thus, a defensive and offensive playermay be connected to the same master control linkage so that movement ofthe master control linkage will move both players simultaneously. Inaddition, the control linkage includes an overcenter throw arrangementwherein only limited to and fro movement of the linkage is necessary toimpart extended to and fro movement of a simulated player. Control ofthe movement of the players is to be accomplished by movement of acontrol knob across the top of a portion of the game board behind eachgoal but within the bounds of the game structure itself, and rotationalmovement is to be imparted to the players by rotating a knob about avertical axis.

In addition, the goal area includes an arm connected to circuitry sothat when the puck enters the goal area and strikes the arm, the circuitwill close producing an audible sound for indicating that the goal hasbeen scored. The game further includes a timer mechanism associated withcircuitry for activating an audible signal at the end of predeterminedtime periods constituting a period of the game and a means for therandom deposit of a puck for center faceoffs or the like.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a perspective view of thesimulated hockey game apparatus of this invention;

FIG. 2 is a bottom plan view of the game shown in FIG. 1 showing theplayer control linkage, game board player traversing slots andsubstantial portions of the audible goal signal circuitry;

FIG. 3 is a transverse sectional view taken generally along the lines3-3 of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a fragmentary sectional view through the audible signal boxtaken generally along the lines 4-4 of FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is an exploded, partial perspective view, of a portion of thelinkage arrangement for player control;

FIG. 6 is a fragmentary perspective view of the goalie control and goalaudible signal structure mechanism;

FIG. 7 is a fragmentary sectional view along the lines 77 of FIG. 2showing a portion of the player control linkage and gearing arrangementfor an offensive player corresponding to a wingman;"

FIG. 8 is a fragmentary sectional view of a portion of the linkage andgearing arrangement for a defensive player corresponding to a defensemamFIG. 9 is a fragmentary section view through a portion of the linkageand gearing arrangement for an offensive player corresponding to acenter;

FIG. 10 is a fragmentary section view through a portion of the linkageand gearing arrangement adjacent the participants control knob for themaster control of the linkage governing the movements of a defensemanand a wing man;

FIG. 11 is a fragmentary sectional view through a portion of the linkageand gearing arrangement adjacent the participant's control knob for thecontrols governing the movement of a center;

FIG. 12 is a fragmentary, exploded, perspective view of an arrangementfor the mounting of a simulated player to the linkage of the gameapparatus;

FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view of portions of the score boardcomponent and puck release mechanism of the game of this invention;

FIG. 14 is a horizontal section view through the timer portion of thegame of this invention;

FIG. 15 is a vertical section view taken generally along the lines l5l5of FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 is a fragmentary section view taken generally along the lines16-16 of FIG. 14;

FIG. 17 is a fragmentary section view of the mounting arrangement forthe score board and timer housings to the game board; and

FIG. 18 is a fragmentary perspective schematic view of the Y wiringarrangement for the game apparatus of this invention;

While this invention is susceptible of embodiment in many differentforms, there is shown in the drawings and will herein be described indetail a specific embodiment therefor, with the understanding that thepresent disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of theprinciples of the invention and is not intended to limit the inventionto the embodiment illustrated.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT The game !0 of thisinvention includes a base 12 preferably made from a molded plasticmaterial, but which may be made from other suitable materials such aspressed wood, metal or the like. Base 12 includes a top portion 14having depending sidewalls 16, 18, 20 and 22 supporting the top inelevation relative to a supporting surface. The top 14 includes anupstanding, generally rectangular rib 24, and a small lip 26 whichprojects centrally inwardly from the bottom of the rib. The rib 24defines a simulated fence bordering a playing surface 28 which issupported on the lip 26 and may be secured thereto by adhesives,fasteners or othersuitable securement means. The playing surface 28 maybe made of a material similar to that of the base 12, such as a plastic,pressed wood, metal or the like. The remaining portion of the base 12outside of the fence includes control areas 30 and 32 at the oppositeends thereof.

With particular reference to FIGS. 1, 2, 3 and 6, the playing surface 28includes a pair of mutually opposed, inward facing, goals 34 and 36,each having an open end or mouth 34a and 36a, respectively. Goals 34 and36 are preferably connected to the playing surface by means of dependingtabs, such as 34b, received in openings, such as 340, in the playingsurface. The playing surface 28 is provided with arcuate slots 38 and 40within the area of the goals 34 and 36, respectively. Slots 38 and 40extend across most of the width of the goal areas.

Goalie linkage members 42 extend through each of the slots 38 and 40.Preferably, the linkage members 42 are made of a thin, sheet metalstructure and include an elongate horizontal portion 42a which ispositioned in the underside of the base, and intermediate uprightportion 42b which extends uprightly through slots 38 and 40. Slots 38and 40 are transversely widened relative to portion 42b to allow to andfro movement of linkage members 42. Each linkage member 42 furtherincludes a short, vertically offset horizontal portion 42c which ispositioned above the playing surface 28 within the area of the goals 34and 36. Portion 42c terminates in an upright tongue 42d for supporting asimulated goalie member, such as goalie 44 for goal 34 and goalie 46 forgoal 36. The rear of each of the goalies has a pair of verticallyaligned slots 44a (as shown on goalie 44) formed therein, such as bybeing struck outwardly from the face of the goalie, for receiving theupright tongue 42d on goalie linkage 42 to secure each simulated goalieplayer 44 and 46 to tongue 42d.

The opposite or control end of linkage 42 remote from the end to whichthe goalie 44 or 46 is secured is provided with an upright pin 47 at theend of portion 42a. Pin 47 extends through each of slots 48 formedmedially in the opposite control areas 30 and 32 of base 12. Slot 48 isshort and slightly elongated in the to and fro direction with respect tothe playing surface 28 and the mutually facing goals for permittinglimited to and fro movement of the simulated goalie 44 or 46 withrespect to the mouth 34a or 36a of goal 34 or 36, respectively. The areaaround slot 48 may be slightly raised to form a bearing surface 48a forengagement with the underside of the goalie control knob 50 affixed topin 47, such as by frictional interfitting or other suitable means, suchas a setscrew, or the like. Through the arrangement of slots 48 and 38and the linkage 42, to and fro movement of goalie 44 or 46 may beaccomplished by pushing knob 50 to and fro with respect to slot 48, andside to side movement of goalie 44 or 46 with respect to the mouth 34aor 36a of goal 34 or 36 may be accomplished by rotation of knob 50 topermit the linkage 42 to laterally traverse in the slot 38. Throughthese movements, opposing participants may attempt to block shots attheir respective goals.

With continued reference to FIGS. 1, 2, 3 and 6, the game furtherincludes a goal signal means 52 for each goal 34 and 36. Goal signalmeans 52 includes a signal linkage element 54 preferably made of a thinrod of metal or the like. Signal linkage element 54 includes an elongateportion 54a positioned below the elongate portion 42a of goalie linkage42 and thereby in the underside of control portions 30 and 32 of base12. The linkage further includes an upturned, forward end 541) whichextends through short elongate slots 55 in the playing surface 28 justforward of slots 38. A short crossrod 54c is secured transversely acrossthe upper end of forward portion 54b to generally span the distanceacross the mouth of each of the goals 34 and 36. Opposite ends ofcrossbar 540 are provided with depending legs 54d to support thecrossbar portion 54c in slight elevation with respect to the playingsurface 28. Signal linkage 54 further includes an upturned rear end 54ewhich extends through slightly elongated slots 56 at opposite ends ofthe base in each of the control areas 30 and 32. Slot 56 is alsopreferably bordered by a small upraised bearing surface 56a forengagement with the underside of goal signal means control knob 58. Asshown in the illustrated embodiment, preferably the slot 56 is formed ina small recessed portion 60 in the opposite end of the base 12.

A pair of contact members 62a and 62b are connected'to the underside ofthe control areas 30 and 32 of base 12 in the area adjacent slot 56. Theforward or innermost positioned contact 62a is in sliding facialengagement with the signal linkage 54. The other contact 62b ispreferably canted and normally kept spaced from the upturned portion 54eof linkage 54 a distance slightly less than the length of slots 55 and56. When linkage 54 is moved rearwardly, such as in response to a puckhitting the crossbar 540, this rearward movement will cause the upturnedportion S4e to engage contact 62b and complete a circuit between the twocontacts.

The contacts are parts of circuitry best seen in FIG. 18. The contacts620 and 62b at opposite ends of the game board are shown connected withthe wiring and signal and power components of the circuitry. A source ofpower, such as a battery 64, is positioned in a bracket 66 with oppositeends 660 and 66b of the bracket embracing the positive and negativegoals of the battery in the well-known manner. Wire 68 leads from thepositive end 69 of bracket 66 to a motor 70. Wires 72a and 72b lead fromthe motor to the opposite contacts 62b. Wires 74a and 74b lead directlyfrom the negative end 75 of the battery bracket 66 to each of theopposite contacts 62a. A wire 76 leads from wire 72b to a ground 78.Another wire 80 leads from wire 72b to a post portion 82a of a mechanism82 for producing an audible signal which will be explained in detaillater. Thus, when the circuit is completed across either of the contacts620 or 62b by rearward movement of linkage 54 in response to a puck, themechanism 82 will be activated to produce an audible signal and indicatethat a goal has been scored. The circuit may be reset by merely movingthe linkage 54 forwardly by means of forward movement being imparted toknob 58 to move portion 54 away from contact 62b. Thus, the upturnedforward end 5412 will move forwardly in slot 55 and push the crossbar54c forwardlyto a position approximately in alignment with the mouth 34aor 36s of goal 34 or 36, respectively.

As best seen in FIGS. 1 and 2, there are five player traversing slots84, 86, 88, 90, 92 and 94, 96, 98, 100, 102 in each half of the playingsurface 28. The outermost slots or those slots adjacent fence 24, suchas 84, 92, 94 and 102 are for supporting mechanism for offensive playerscorresponding to the so-called wing or wingman in the game of hockey.Each team includes two such players. The middle slots 88 and 98 are alsofor supporting mechanism for offensive players corresponding to thecenter" in the game of hockey. Each team has one such player. Thoseslots 86, 90, 96 and 100 are for supporting mechanism for the defensiveplayers corresponding to the defenseman in the game of hockey. Each teamhas two such players. One team's two defensive players are in the samehalf of the playing surface as the other teams offensive players. Thus,each team has three offensive players in the opponents half of the gameboard and two defensive players in its own half of the game board.

The game further includes simulated players connected to theaforementioned supporting mechanism (to be explained), such as wingman104, defenseman 106, center 108, defenseman 110 and wingman 112 in onehalf of the playing surface and wingman 114, defenseman 116 and center118, defenseman 120 and wingman 122, in the other half of the gameboard. Thus, including the goalies 44 and 46, each team has sixsimulated players corresponding to that in the game of hockey.

A centerline 124 may be provided on the playing surface 28 for dividingthe playing surface into the respective offensive zones. A playing pieceor simulated puck 126 is also shown in FIG. 1 adjacent the center line124.

In addition to the goalie control knob 50 and the goal signal reset knob58, each control area 30 and 32 of base 12 further includes playercontrol knobs 128a and 128b, and 130a and 130b, and 132a and 132b,respectively. These knobs are for controlling the to and fro and pivotalmovement of the several players 104 through 122 through suitable linkageand supporting mechanism as will be explained.

For controlling the movements of each of the players 104 through 122,there is an associated player pivot assembly 134, 136, 138, 140, 142,144, 146, 148, 150 and 152, and related, generally horizontally disposed(relative to playing surface 28), player link element 154, 156, 158,160, 162, 164, 166, 168, 170 and 172, respectively.

The player pivot assemblies 134, 142 and 144, 152 for each of theopposing pairs of so-called wingmen are substantially identical andtypified by the assembly 134 shown in FIG. 7. Thus, only this assemblywill be described with the understanding that the description applies toassemblies 142, 144 and 152 as well. The assembly 134 includes agenerally U- shaped frame or bracket structure which is impaled on therespective link element 154 and fixed thereto for to and fro movementwith the link, while permitting rotational movement of the link element154. Link element 154 has a gear 176 affixed thereto with bracket 134for rotation with the link. The bracket 174 rotatably uprightly supportsa player mounting stud 178 generally transversely to link 154 in ears179a and 1791). At its lower end, stud 178 includes a gear 180 positioned generally transverse to gear 176 and in meshing engagementtherewith so that rotation of the link 154 and gear 176 impartsrotational movement to stud 178 by way of gear 180. Preferably, theupper end of stud 178 is provided with a multifaceted periphery 182,such as the square periphery shown herein.

The inner end of each link 154, 162, 164 and 172 is rotatably mounted toa related defenseman" pivot assembly 136, 140, 146 and 150,respectively, but fixed thereto for to and fro movement therewith. Theseveral player pivot assemblies 136, 140, 146 and 150 for the opposedpairs of defensemen" are also substantially identical and are typifiedby the assembly 136 shown in FIG. 8. Thus, only this assembly will bediscussed with the understanding that the description applies toassemblies 140, 146 and as well. Assembly 136 includes a generallyU-shaped frame or bracket structure 184 through which link 156 extends.The outer end of each link 156, 160, 166 and is rotatably connected to aspaced pair of inverted U-shaped brackets 185a and 185!) secured to theunderside of playing surface 28 by a transversely, medially spanningT-bar 1851. A sleeve 186 is positioned about link 156 in the area of thebracket 184 and supports a gear 188. Link 156 is connected to bracket184 for to and fro movement with the bracket 184. In addition, the link156 is rotatable relative to bracket 184 and the sleeves 186 and gear188 are fixed for rotation with link 156. A stud 190 is rotatablyuprightly mounted in cars 191a and l9lb of bracket 184, generallytransversely to link 156, for rotation about a vertical axis. Stud 190includes a gear 192 at its lower end in meshing engagement with the gear188 for rotation of stud 190 responsive to rotation of link 156. Theupper end of stud 190 is provided with a multifaceted configuration orflats 194. The end of each link 154, 162, 164, 172 rotatably mounted ineach related defenseman" pivot assembly includes a gear 195 in meshingengagement with link gear 188 so that rotation of the defenseman link,such as 156, will cause rotation of the related wingman link, such as154.

The player pivot assemblies 138 and 148 are substantially identical andtypified by the structure of assembly 138 shown in FIG. 9. Thus, onlythis assembly will be described with the understanding that thedescription applies to assembly 148 as well. Assembly 138 includes agenerally U-shaped bracket 196 which is connected to link 158 for to andfro movement with the link while permitting the link 158 to rotaterelative to the bracket 196. Gear 198 is connected to link 158 forrotation therewith. An upstanding player supporting stud 200 isuprightly rotatably mounted in ears 201a and 20lb of the bracket 196generally transversely to link 158, for rotation about a vertical axisand includes a gear 202 at its lower end which is in meshing engagementwith gear 198. Thus, stud 200 will rotate responsive to rotation of link158. The free end of stud 200 preferably is also provided with amultifaceted configuration or the flats 204 as shown in FIG. 9.

The linkage control system for each of the several players furtherincludes the master pivot assemblies 208, 210 and 212 positioned underone control area 30 and the master pivot assemblies 214, 216 and 218positioned under the other control area 32. Pivot assemblies 210 and 216are substantially identical and control the movements of the opposingsimulated centers." Pivot assemblies 208, 212, 214 and 218 are similarand each controls the movements of a simulated defenseman" and simulatedwingman of each team. Thus, the assemblies 208 and 212 control bothdefensemen and both wingmen for the team which is being controlled by aplayer adjacent the control area 30. Similarly, the pivot assemblies 214and 218 control the defensemen" and wingmen for the team which is beingcontrolled by a player adjacent the control area 32.

Master pivot assembly 208 is typical of the assemblies 208, 212, 214 and218. Thus, only this assembly will be discussed with the understandingthat the description applies to assemblies 212, 214 and 218 as well.Included in the assembly is a generally U-shaped bracket 220 having atop portion 220a, and spaced, downwardly extending ears 220b and 220c. Astud 222 extends generally uprightly through the top portion 220a and ismounted for rotation to bracket 220 about a vertical axis. A hub portion224 is connected to the lower end of stud 222 inside of bracket 220 andsupports a gear 226. Gear 226 is positioned for rotation in a generallyhorizontal plane. Link 156 includes a sleeve 228 within bracket 220 anda gear 230 is fixed to sleeve 228. Link 156 is associated with bracket220 for linear to and fro movement therewith while permitting rotationalmovement of the link 156 with respect to the bracket 220. Thus, as stud222 is rotated, the link 156 will be rotated through the association ofgear 226 and 230.

A master pivot assembly 210 typifies the structure of both assemblies210 and 216, and only this assembly will he described with theunderstanding that the description applies to assembly 216 as well.Included in this assembly is a generally U-shaped bracket 228 having atop 228a and opposed spaced ears. 228b and 2280. A stud 230 extendsgenerally uprightly through the top 228a of bracket 228 and is mountedfor rotation about a generally vertical axis. The lower end of stud 230is provided with a hub 232 and a gear 234 is connected to the hub 232for rotation in a generally horizontal plane. Link 158 is connected tobracket 228 for to and fro movement with the bracket while allowingrotational movement of the link 158 relative to the bracket. A gear 236is connected to the link 158 for rotation therewith in a generallyvertical plane and is in meshing engagement with gear 234. Thus, as stud230 is rotated, the link 158 will be rotated through the engagement ofgears 234 and 236.

Each of the control areas 30 and 32 of the base 12 is provided withslots generally overlying the master pivot assemblies. Accordingly, incontrol area 30 elongate slots 238, 240 and 242 overlie master pivotassemblies 208, 210 and 212, respectively; and in control area 32,elongate slots 244, 246 and 248 overlie master pivot assemblies 214, 216and 218, respectively. The stud portion of each of the pivot assembliesextends upwardly through each of the aforementioned slots and is securedto the previously identified knobs 128a through 13212. Specifically,studs 222 of the master pivot assemblies 208, 212, 214 and 218 areconnected to the knobs 128b, 132b, 128a and 132a, respectively. Alsostuds 230 of the master pivot assemblies 210 and 216 are connected tothe knobs 130b and 130a, respectively. Accordingly, any motion impartedto the aforementioned knobs will be transferred to the pivot assembliesand linkages to players associated therewith.

To provide a means for reducing the amount of linear motion necessary tobe exerted on the master control knobs to move the players in a to andfro path, the hockey game of this invention is provided with linearmotion amplification linkage assemblies 254 and 256, best seen in FIGS.2 and and also partially shown in FIG. 3. Each of the linkage assemblies254 and 256 is substantially identical so that the parts of one suchlinkage assembly will be described with the understanding that thedescription applies to the other such linkage assembly as well.

Each linkage assembly includes a pair of generally L-shaped arms 258 and260. Each of the arms includes transversely oriented portions 258a and258b; and 260a and 260b, which meet at a juncture 258C and 260e,respectively. Furthermore, each of the portions 258b and 260b terminatesin an offset end portion 258d and 26011, respectively. Portions 258a and260a have forwardly ofi'set hollow sleeves 262 and 264, respectively,formed thereon, with one sleeve, such as the sleeve 264 being generallyconcentrically related to the other sleeve 262 and slightly smaller ininternal and external diameter.

A hub 266 having a first portion 266a of a size to matingly receivesleeve 262, a second reduced portion 266b of a size to matingly receivesleeve 264, and a third reduced portion 266e, depends from a bar 266dwhich is fastened, by means of screws 268 to the underside playingsurface 28 in an area just forward of each of the goals 34 and 36.Linear motion amplification linkage assemblies 254 and 256 are connectedto the underside of playing surface 28 by means of sleeve 262 beingreceived on hub portion 266a reduced sleeve 264 being received onreduced hub portion 266b, and a fastener 270 being threadably receivedin the third reduced portion 266c of hub 266 with a washer 272interposed between fastener 270 and the underside of sleeve 264, tothereby rotatably mount each of the arms 258 and 260 with respect to hub266.

Straight link bars 274 and 276 extend from arms 258 and 260 to masterpivot assemblies 208 and 212. Each of the link bars 274 and 276 has ashort sleeve portion 278 at one end which is impaled by the studs 222 ofeach of the master pivot assemblies 208, 212, 214 and 218. At theopposite end, each of the straight link bars 274 and 276 is providedwith a hollow hub 280 which overlies, and is pivotally connected to, anupstanding pin 282 provided on each of the arms 258 and 260 of thejuncture 258a and 2600, respectively. By this arrangement, the linearmotion amplification linkage assemblies 254 and 256 are connected toeach of the master pivot assemblies 208, 212, 214 and 218 for conjointmovement.

In addition, motion transmitting links 292 and 294 intercom nect arms258 and 260 with adjacent defenseman pivot assemblies. In particular,link 292 connects each arm 258 with the pivot assemblies 136 and 146 andlink 294 connects each arm 260 with the pivot assemblies 140 and 150,respectively. As illustrated in FIG. 3, with respect to link 294, theopposite ends of the link are upturned as shown at 294a and downtumed asshown at 294k. The upturned end of each link 292 and 294 extends throughopenings 295 and each of the offset ends 258b of each arm 258 and theupturned end of each link 294 extends through openings 296 in each ofthe offset ends 260d of the arms 260. The downtumed end of each link 292and 294 extends through an opening 2980 in an ear 298 formed on each ofthe brackets 184 of each of the pivot assemblies 136, 140, 146 and 150.By this arrangement, the pivot assemblies 136, 140, 146 and 150 areconnected to the L-shaped arms 258 and 260 of each of the linkageassemblies 254 and 256 for conjoint movement therewith.

As can best be seen with reference to FIG. 2, movement of any of themaster pivot assemblies 208 or 212 will cause movement in the linkageassembly 254 and movement of any of the master pivot assemblies 214 and218 will cause movement of linkage assembly 256. Each of these linkageassemblies is movable between a retracted position, as shown withrespect to assembly 254 on the left-hand side of FIG. 2, and a fullyextended position as shown with respect to assembly 256 on theright-hand side of FIG. 2. Because movement of one of the master pivotassemblies will cause movement of either one of the L'shaped arms 258 or260, this will be translated as approximately twice as much linear or toand fro motion imparted to the defenseman pivot assemblies 136, 140 or146, 150, through the connection of the links 292 and 294. Thus, theslots 238, 242, 244 and 248 need be approximately only half as long asthe slots for the defensemen and wingmen players, namely slots 84, 86,90, 92, 94, 96, 100 and 102, in that only a reduced amount of to and fromovement need be imparted to the master pivot control assemblies toaccomplish approximately twice the amount of to and fro movement in thelinkage assemblies to which these players are attached. This permitsquicker movements to be imparted to the players and further permits theparticipants to be positioned closer to the game board in that theamount of to and fro movement which the participants must impart withtheir arms is significantly reduced compared to presently known hockeygames of the type utilizing to and fro movement in a linkage system toaccomplish corresponding movement in simulated players.

The game of this invention is further provided with a scoreboardassembly 300. Scoreboard assembly 300 includes complementary housingparts 302 and 304 which are joined together by suitable means, such asadhesive or the like to form an enclosure. Housing 302 has two dependinglegs 306 and 308 which terminate at reduced ends 306a and 308a,respectively, leaving a reduced shoulder 306b and 308b spaced above theterminus of the legs. Housing 304 also has two depending legs 310 and312 which terminate in reduced pin end portions 310a and 312a. Apertures314 are provided in the base 12 adjacent the fence 24 for receiving apin portion 310a and 3120 of the legs of housing part 304. As best seenin FIG. 17, with housing parts 302 and 304 assembled together, theassembly 300 is connected to the game base 12 with the pins 310a and312a extending through the apertures 314 and reduced shoulders 306b and308k abutting the top of fence 24, with the remainder of the legportions, such as the reduced ends 306a, extending downwardly over theinner face of fence 24.

Housing 302 is provided with a central aperture 316 in the forward wall318. A pair of ribs 320 and 322 are formed in the interior of thehousing on either side of aperture 316 and are provided with shortrecesses 320a and 322a, respectively. A

puck release arm 324 extends through the aperture 316 between a distalend 324a and a proximal end 324b in the interior of housing 300. Agenerally crescentlike puck holding jaw 326 is provided at the distalend 324a of puck release arm 324. A transversely extending pivot pin 328extends through the proximal end 3241) of the arm 324 in the interior ofthe housing and occupies the recesses 320a and 322a in the ribs 320 and322. A torsion spring 330 is connected to the pin 328 and biased betweena connection 330a on arm 324 and a connection on the housing part 302(not shown) to normally bias the arm 324 in an upward position as shownin FIGS. 1 and 3. It is intended that when a puck 126 is dropped thereinthe weight of the puck would cause the arm to slowly descend and dumpthe puck over the center area of the playing surface 28 for theaccomplishment of the well known maneuver of the faceoff.

A pair of discs 338 and 340 are provided in the interior of the housing300 and are rotatably mounted about pins 342 and 344. Windows 346 and348 are provided for viewing a portion of the discs which are intendedto have numerical indicia 350, 352 thereon. As each team scores a goal,the disc may be manually rotated to indicate the score through thewindows 346 and 348.

On the side of the base 12 opposite from the master scoreboard assembly300 there is provided a timer housing 360 comprised of housing parts 362and 364 which are generally similar in structure to the housing parts302 and 304 of master scoreboard assembly 300. Parts 362 and 364 areconnected together by suitable means, such as adhesive, to form anenclosure. It is intended that the housing 360 would be secured to thebase 12 in generally the same fashion as the master scoreboard assembly300. Thus, for this purpose the part 362 is provided with depending legs366 and 368 which terminate in reduced pinlike ends 366a and 368a ofsubstantially the same construction as the legs 310 and 312 of housingpart 304. The other housing part 364 is intended to have substantiallysimilar leg construction to that of housing part 302.

The forward wall 370 of housing part 364 is provided with a pair ofopenings 372 and 374 for receiving components of the timer mechanism aswill be explained. Similarly, the rear wall 376 of housing component 362is provided with component supporting bosses 378 and 380.

A timer mechanism 382 is supported within a C-shaped frame 384 and frameplate 384a in the interior of the housing 360. Timer mechanism 382includes a winding shaft 386 which extends outwardly through opening 374in wall 370 and which also is received in boss 380 on wall 376. A knob386a is connected to winding shaft 386 at the exterior of the housing. Aconvoluted leaf spring 388 is connected to winding shaft 386 and has afree end 388a which abuts against frame leg 390.

Winding shaft 386 further includes a gear 392 and a wheel 393 to theexterior of the C-shaped frame 384. Wheel 393 has an outwardlyprojecting tab 393a which is in a position to strike a stop 394 whichdepends from the top of the interior of the housing 360.

Gear 392 is in meshing engagement with pinion 395 secured in the frame384 on an axis generally parallel to the axis of shaft 386. Pinion 395supports a gear 396 which is in meshing engagement with pinion 398, alsosecured in the frame 384 on an axis which is generally parallel to theother aforementioned axes. Pinion 398 supports a gear 400 which is inengagement with a pinion 401 also secured within the frame 384 about anaxis parallel to the axis of the other pinion gears. Pinion 401 supportsa five pronged star wheel 402 which is in engagement with a leafliketongue member 404 pivotally mounted within the frame along shaft 405.Tongue 404 is adjacent circuit post 82a and includes a central offsetportion 406 which is in a position to engage the back end of arm 408.Arm 408 is mounted on a rotatable shaft 410 which, at one end, isreceived within boss 378 and at the other end extends through opening372 in wall 370 and has knob 372a secured to the exterior thereof. Astop member 412 projects outwardly from the rear wall 376 in a positionto engage arm 408 as shown in dotted outline in FIG. 15.

The timer mechanism 382 is connected, by means of wires 76 and 80 withthe previously described circuitry of the game. The motor 70 includes athree pronged pinion 416 on the motor shaft which intermittently mayengage a metallic leaf element 418 as the motor shaft rotates. Leafelement 418 is secured by fasteners 420 to base 12. The function of arm408 is to provide an on-off capability to the timer mechanism. For thispurpose, the exterior of the forward wall 370 is provided with indicia422 indicating an on function and indicia 424 indicating an offfunction. As the knob 372a is rotated between these two positions, thearm 408 will be moved between the dotted outline and full outlinepositions in FIG. 14. The dotted outline position indicates the onfunction of the mechanism wherein movement of tongue 404 is permitted,and the full outline position indicates an off position, whereinmovement of tongue 404 is prevented. in addition, the forward wall 370includes a simulated clock 426 and the knob 386a includes a pointer 428.By reversely winding the knob 3860, the spring 388 is wound inproportion to the amount of time for which the timer is to run.

After the spring 388 is wound, the timer mechanism 382, through theaforedescribed gears begins a step-by-step countdown until such time asthe star wheel 402 moves the tongue 404 about its pivotal mounting intoengagement with the post element 82a to complete a circuit and thereforestart driving the motor 70. This will cause the pinions 416 torepeatedly strike the element 418 and produce a loud audible clickingsound, thereby indicating the end of a designated time period.

Timer mechanism 382 provides a unique arrangement for controlling anelectric circuit to produce a signal. instead of providing a rheostat orsemiconductor, or the like, the simple spring wound timer permits theparticipants to select a preset interval of time as the duration forwhich the circuit will remain inactive until a signal is produced. Thespring wound mechanism disclosed herein is inexpensive and reliable, andeasily manipulated by participants of the game.

Posts, such as 178, 190, 200, 230, extend through mating square aperture430 in disclike base 432. Base 432 includes an arm 434 having a slot 436therein for receiving the simulated feet 438a and 438b of any one of thesimulated players 104 through 120. Each of these simulated playersfurther includes a tab portion 440 having aligned apertures 442a and442b therein for implacement by one of posts 178, 190, 200, 222, and230. Thus, as these posts are rotated, or moved to and fro, the base 432and arm 434 will be rotated, or moved to and fro, as will the simulatedplayer connected thereto.

It can be seen that the hockey game of this invention provides uniqueadvantages in the control of the simulated players through the describedlinkage arrangements. Participants may simultaneously control adefenseman and a wingman of each side of the playing surface. By thisarrangement, six players may be controlled with but four knobs, reducingthe number of control elements which must be selected during the rapidplay of the game. Furthermore, the motion amplification assembly reducesthe amount of to and fro movement which must be imparted to the mastercontrol in order to effect the desired amount of to and fro movement inthe players. This arrangement makes for quicker action in the game and,because it reduces the space requirements for the movement of the mastercontrol, permits the participants to station themselves closer to theplaying surface. Furthermore, unique goal signal means are provided forproducing an audible signal to clearly indicate when a goal has beenscored and the same sound producing means is associated with circuitryfor providing a timer mechanism with the game. Finally, the uniqueonepiece molded construction of the base in its association with theseparately received playing surface in the medial portion thereofprovides a structure which is capable of inexpensive manufacture, simpleassembly and extended durability.

I The foregoing detailed description has been given for clearness ofunderstanding only, and no unnecessary limitations should be understoodtherefrom, as some modifications may be obvious to those skilled in theart.

We claim:

1. In a game apparatus of the type having a base with a top and anunderside, a playing surface on the top of the base having oppositesides and opposite ends, opposed goal areas on opposite ends of theplaying surface, and playing elements movably mounted on the playingsurface for to and fro, end to end, movement along the playing surface,an improved player control assembly comprising: a master player controlmanipulatable member movably associated with the base outside of theplaying surface; a first player actuating link member extending fromoperable connection with said master control to operable connection witha player element mounted on said playing surface in an end thereofproximate to said master control; a second player actuating linkextending from operable connection with said first link to operableconnection with a second player element mounted on said playing surfacein an end thereof distal from said master control, and a movementamplification assembly interconnected between said master control memberand one of said player actuating links for imparting translationalmovement to at least one of the playing elements in excess of the amountof movement imparted to the master player control member, wherebymanipulation of said master control will simultaneously affect movementof two playing elements in spaced apart positions on the playingsurface.

2. The game apparatus of claim 1 wherein the player actuating links areinterconnected to the playing elements by player pivot assemblies whichtransmit to and fro movement of the links to the player elements andtranslate pivotal movement of the links as pivotal movement to theplaying elements.

3. The game apparatus of claim 2 wherein the movement amplificationmeans is interconnected between the master control member and a playerpivot assembly associated with the playing elements.

4. The game apparatus of claim 3 wherein the interconnection of themovement amplification means and the playing elements is with a playerpivot assembly associated with a playing element in an end of theplaying surface proximate to the master control member.

5. The game apparatus of claim 2 wherein the player actuating links aregenerally horizontally disposed relative to the playing surface andwherein the master control members are interconnected with the playeractuating link by means of a master control pivot assembly including ashaft pivotal about a vertical axis relative to the playing surface sothat rotation of the master player control member about a vertical axiswill cause rotation of the link elements about a generally horizontalaxis.

6. The game apparatus of claim 2 wherein the playing surface is providedwith a plurality of slots therein and each playing element pivotassembly includes a rotatable shaft which extends through a slot, theshaft being rotatable about a vertical axis and wherein the secondplayer actuating link extends generally horizontally from operableconnection with a second player pivot assembly to operable connectionwith a first player pivot assembly and wherein the first playeractuating link extends generally horizontally from operable connectionwith the first player pivot assembly to a master control pivot assembly,also including a shaft rotatable about a vertical axis; and whereinslots are provided in the base outside of the playing surface throughwhich the master pivot playing assembly shaft elements extend so thatrotation of the master control member about a vertical axis would betranslated into movement of the player pivot assembly shafts and to andfro movement of the master player member will be translated into likemovement of the player pivot shafts.

7. The game apparatus of claim 6 wherein said movement amplificationassembly is connected to the underside of the playing surface and isinterconnected between the master control pivot assembly and the playerpivot assembly proximate thereto.

8. The game apparatus of claim 7 wherein the movement amplificationassembly includes an arm having first and second portions transverselyoriented relative to each other, with the first portion pivoted to theunderside of the playing surface; a connecting arm extending from apivotal connection with the juncture of the first and second portions toa pivotal connection with the master control pivot assembly; and amotion transmitting link extending from a pivotal connection with thefree end of the second portion to a pivotal connection with the playerpivot assembly proximate to said master control pivot assembly.

9. The game apparatus of claim 8 wherein the first portion of the arm ofthe movement amplification assembly is normally disposed generallytransversely to the direction of to and fro movement of link elementsand the second portion of said arm is normally disposed generallyparallel to the direction of to and fro movement of the link elements.

10. The game apparatus of claim 1 wherein two master player controlmembers are provided at each end of the base and each master playercontrol member is associated with a first and second player actuatinglink member.

11. The game apparatus of claim 10 wherein each end of the base includesa center player control assembly medially positioned between the twomaster player control assemblies with the center player control assemblybeing operatively connected to a playing element positioned medially ofthe other playing elements in the adjacent end of the playing surface.

12. The game of claim 11 wherein a goal player control assembly isprovided at each end of the base and is operatively connected with agoal player movably mounted in the goal area.

13. In a game apparatus of the type having a base with a top and anunderside, a playing surface on the top of the base having oppositesides and opposite ends, opposed goal areas on opposite ends of theplaying surface and playing elements movably mounted on the playingsurface for to and fro, end to end movement along the playing surface; amaster motion transmitting assembly mounted to the base for to and fromovement and including a generally uprightly oriented shaft relative tosaid playing surface to which a master control member is connected, withthe master motion transmitting assembly including means for transmittingpivotal movement imparted to said upright shaft in another plane; aplayer motion transmitting assembly associated with players on theplaying surface and associated with the playing surface for to and fromovement relative thereto and including a shaft generally uprightlyoriented relative to the playing surface to which a playing element isconnected, with means in the player motion transmitting assemblies forreceiving pivotal motion in one plane and transmitting it as pivotalmovement to said player upright shaft in a generally transverse plane;player actuating link members extending from operable connection andsaid master motion transmitting assembly to operable connection withsaid player member motion transmitting assembly and a player movementamplification assembly including an arm movably mounted to the undersideof the base between a first retracted under center position and a secondextended over center position; arm link means interconnecting the mastermotion transmitting assembly and the movable arm for pivotal movement ofthe arm responsive to to and fro movement of the master motion assemblyand motion transmitting links means interconnecting the arm with theplayer motion transmitting assembly for movement of the player motiontransmitting assembly responsive to movement of said arm, whereby as themaster motion transmitting assembly is moved to and fro, the arm of theamplification assembly will be moved between the under center and overcenter positions to produce to and fro movements in said player motiontransmitting assembly in excess of the amount of to and fro movementimparted to said master motion transmitting assembly.

14. The game apparatus of claim 13 wherein two master motiontransmitting assemblies are provided at each end of the base and eachmaster player control member is associated with a first and secondplayer actuating link member.

15. The game apparatus of claim 14 wherein each end of the base includesa center player control assembly medially positioned between the twomaster motion transmitting assemblies with the center player controlassembly being operatively connected to a playing element positionedmedially of the other playing elements in the adjacent end of theplaying surface.

16. The game apparatus of claim 13 wherein the arm movably mountedincludes first and second portions transversely oriented relative toeach other, with the first portion pivoted to the underside of theplaying surface; said arm link means extend from a pivotal connectionwith the juncture of the first and second portions to a pivotalconnection with the master motion transmitting assembly; and said motiontransmitting link means extends from a pivotal connection with the freeend of the second portion to a pivotal connection with the player motiontransmitting assembly proximate to said master motion transmittingassembly.

17. The game apparatus of claim 16 wherein the first portion of the armof the movement amplification assembly is normally disposed generallytransversely to the direction of to and fro movement of the arm linkmeans and the second portion of said am is normally disposed generallyparallel to the direction of to and fro movement of the arm link means.

1. In a game apparatus of the type having a base with a top and anunderside, a playing surface on the top of the base having oppositesides and opposite ends, opposed goal areas on opposite ends of theplaying surface, and playing elements movably mounted on the playingsurface for to and fro, end to end, movement along the playing surface,an improved player control assembly comprising: a master player controlmanipulatable member movably associated with the base outside of theplaying surface; a first player actuating link member extending fromoperable connection with said master control to operable connection witha player element mounted on said playing surface in an end thereofproximate to said master control; a second player actuating linkextending from operable connection with said first link to operableconnection with a second player element mounted on said playing surfacein an end thereof distal from said master control, and a movementamplification assembly interconnected between said master control memberand one of said player actuating links for imparting translationalmovement to at least one of the playing elements in excess of the amountof movement imparted to the master player control member, wherebymanipulation of said master control will simultaneously affect movementof two playing elements in spaced apart positions on the playingsurface.
 2. The game apparatus of claim 1 wherein the player actuatinglinks are interconnected to the playing elements by player pivotassemblies which transmit to and fro movement of the links to the playerelements and translate pivotal movement of the links as pivotal movementto the playing elements.
 3. The game apparatus of claim 2 wherein themovement amplification means is interconnected between the mastercontrol member and a player pivot assembly associated with the playingelements.
 4. The game apparatus of claim 3 wherein the interconnectionof the movement amplification means and the playing elements is with aplayer pivot assembly associated with a playing element in an end of theplaying surface proximate to the master control member.
 5. The gameapparatus of claim 2 wherein the player actuating links are generallyhorizontally disposed relative to the playing surface and wherein themaster control members are interconnected with the player actuating linkby means of a master control pivot assembly including a shaft pivotalabout a vertical axis relative to the playing surface so that rotationof the master player control member about a vertical axis will causerotation of the link elements about a generally horizontal axis.
 6. Thegame apparatus of claim 2 wherein the playing surface is provided with aplurality of slots therein and each playing element pivot assemblyincludes a rotatable shaft which extends through a slot, the shaft beingrotatable about a vertical axis and wherein the second player actuatinglink extends generally horizontally from operable connection with asecond player pivot assembly to operable connection with a first playerpivot assembly and wherein the first player actuating link extendsgenerally horizontally from operable connection with the first playerpivot assembly to a master control pivot assembly, also including ashaft rotatable about a vertical axis; and wherein slots are provided inthe base outside of the playing surface through which the master pivotplaying assembly shaft elements extend so that rotation of the mastercontrol member about a vertical axis would be translated into movementof the player pivot assembly shafts and to and fro movemenT of themaster player member will be translated into like movement of the playerpivot shafts.
 7. The game apparatus of claim 6 wherein said movementamplification assembly is connected to the underside of the playingsurface and is interconnected between the master control pivot assemblyand the player pivot assembly proximate thereto.
 8. The game apparatusof claim 7 wherein the movement amplification assembly includes an armhaving first and second portions transversely oriented relative to eachother, with the first portion pivoted to the underside of the playingsurface; a connecting arm extending from a pivotal connection with thejuncture of the first and second portions to a pivotal connection withthe master control pivot assembly; and a motion transmitting linkextending from a pivotal connection with the free end of the secondportion to a pivotal connection with the player pivot assembly proximateto said master control pivot assembly.
 9. The game apparatus of claim 8wherein the first portion of the arm of the movement amplificationassembly is normally disposed generally transversely to the direction ofto and fro movement of link elements and the second portion of said armis normally disposed generally parallel to the direction of to and fromovement of the link elements.
 10. The game apparatus of claim 1 whereintwo master player control members are provided at each end of the baseand each master player control member is associated with a first andsecond player actuating link member.
 11. The game apparatus of claim 10wherein each end of the base includes a center player control assemblymedially positioned between the two master player control assemblieswith the center player control assembly being operatively connected to aplaying element positioned medially of the other playing elements in theadjacent end of the playing surface.
 12. The game of claim 11 wherein agoal player control assembly is provided at each end of the base and isoperatively connected with a goal player movably mounted in the goalarea.
 13. In a game apparatus of the type having a base with a top andan underside, a playing surface on the top of the base having oppositesides and opposite ends, opposed goal areas on opposite ends of theplaying surface and playing elements movably mounted on the playingsurface for to and fro, end to end movement along the playing surface; amaster motion transmitting assembly mounted to the base for to and fromovement and including a generally uprightly oriented shaft relative tosaid playing surface to which a master control member is connected, withthe master motion transmitting assembly including means for transmittingpivotal movement imparted to said upright shaft in another plane; aplayer motion transmitting assembly associated with players on theplaying surface and associated with the playing surface for to and fromovement relative thereto and including a shaft generally uprightlyoriented relative to the playing surface to which a playing element isconnected, with means in the player motion transmitting assemblies forreceiving pivotal motion in one plane and transmitting it as pivotalmovement to said player upright shaft in a generally transverse plane;player actuating link members extending from operable connection andsaid master motion transmitting assembly to operable connection withsaid player member motion transmitting assembly and a player movementamplification assembly including an arm movably mounted to the undersideof the base between a first retracted under center position and a secondextended over center position; arm link means interconnecting the mastermotion transmitting assembly and the movable arm for pivotal movement ofthe arm responsive to to and fro movement of the master motion assemblyand motion transmitting links means interconnecting the arm with theplayer motion transmitting assembly for movement of the player motiontransmitting assembly responsive to movement of said arm, whereby as themaster motion transmitting assembly is moved to and fro, the arm of theamplification assembly will be moved between the under center and overcenter positions to produce to and fro movements in said player motiontransmitting assembly in excess of the amount of to and fro movementimparted to said master motion transmitting assembly.
 14. The gameapparatus of claim 13 wherein two master motion transmitting assembliesare provided at each end of the base and each master player controlmember is associated with a first and second player actuating linkmember.
 15. The game apparatus of claim 14 wherein each end of the baseincludes a center player control assembly medially positioned betweenthe two master motion transmitting assemblies with the center playercontrol assembly being operatively connected to a playing elementpositioned medially of the other playing elements in the adjacent end ofthe playing surface.
 16. The game apparatus of claim 13 wherein the armmovably mounted includes first and second portions transversely orientedrelative to each other, with the first portion pivoted to the undersideof the playing surface; said arm link means extend from a pivotalconnection with the juncture of the first and second portions to apivotal connection with the master motion transmitting assembly; andsaid motion transmitting link means extends from a pivotal connectionwith the free end of the second portion to a pivotal connection with theplayer motion transmitting assembly proximate to said master motiontransmitting assembly.
 17. The game apparatus of claim 16 wherein thefirst portion of the arm of the movement amplification assembly isnormally disposed generally transversely to the direction of to and fromovement of the arm link means and the second portion of said arm isnormally disposed generally parallel to the direction of to and fromovement of the arm link means.